Key Facts
• July 2025: Political party gains second-highest support after ruling party in polls.
• 2020: Party founded; recruitment strategies reportedly included multi-level marketing methods.
• 14 seats targeted in Senate elections under leader Sohei Kamiya, aged 47.
• Recruitment involved indirect invitations like business seminars and skill workshops.
• Members allegedly used code words like “Daidai” to avoid public scrutiny.
• Reports of members promoting investments requiring a minimum $350 monthly contribution.
• Leader’s company previously sold controversial health products and high-priced shampoos.
• Party denies allegations, claiming fundamental differences from multi-level marketing organizations.
• Experts compare recruitment tactics to those used by cults, emphasizing fear-based persuasion.
• Full details published in the August 7, 2025, issue of Weekly Shincho.
Summary
A Japanese political party, led by Sohei Kamiya, has been accused of employing multi-level marketing strategies to expand its membership since its 2020 founding. Allegations include indirect recruitment methods, use of code words, and promotion of controversial investments. Experts liken these tactics to those used by cults, citing fear-based persuasion. The party denies the claims, asserting its distinction from such organizations. Further details are available in Weekly Shincho‘s August 7, 2025, issue.
